From Cynthia Scott of OMC Financial Services:
Some tips to reduce or eliminate the “swipe fee” you are charged when you make a purchase
**Use your debit card as a credit card; most debit cards can be used as a credit card as well. Check with your bank.
**Credit cards covers you from theft; use of a credit card will also impact your credit score
**Pay as much as possible in cash; it will also keep you from overspending.
**Use gift cards that you receive since you are not charged fees to use it and there are generous expiration dates; legislation was passed in August 2010 to extend expiration dates
**Buy discounted gift cards from websites such as www.plasticjungle.com; you may be able to purchase them for up to 50% of their value
**Research fees charged at your bank to identify hidden fees.
**Be aware that bonus miles or other benefits may be eliminated on your credit cards since banks will have to make up lost revenues on debit cards.
